Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for resiliency?

• A. Poverty
• B. Single caregiver or helicopter parents
• C. Setting and not meeting goals
• D. Considering others

Answer: (D)

Resilience grows when helpful supports and skills are in place to cope with stress. Risk factors raise vulnerability, while protective factors strengthen the ability to adapt.

Considering others is a protective trait. Empathy and caring for others foster social connections, belonging, and support networks that help someone cope during tough times.

The other items describe conditions that typically add stress or limit development of coping abilities: poverty creates chronic stress and resource limits; having a single caregiver or overly protective “helicopter” parents can restrict autonomy and the practice of independent problem-solving; setting goals and not meeting them signals ongoing challenges and can undermine self-efficacy and motivation. Together, these factors can undermine resilience, whereas caring for others supports it.